The conclusion to the most recent trilogy of Skywalker-centred Star Wars movies is getting a rewrite, with Lucasfilm drafting in Wonder screenwriter Jack Thorne to make edits to the script developed by director Colin Trevorrow and his writing partner Derek Connolly.

Image: tv.bt.com

While it remains unclear as to how much work is needed on what will be Episode IX (9) of the franchise, the British scribe will be working against the clock to make the appropriate changes to the screenplay with filming due to begin in January 2018, just one month after the release of Rian Johnson’s Episode VIII: The Last Jedi.

According to reports from The Hollywood Reporter, Johnson’s addition to the Star Wars franchise may also be due for rewrites despite already being deep into post-production. That film, written and directed by the Looper screenwriter-director, is due for release on December the 15th 2017.

This news comes as the latest in a list of changes made to the franchise’s long-term plans in recent months, with Ron Howard taking the reins of Lucasfilm’s Han Solo prequel following the departures of Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. Speaking of their exit, the co-directors of 21 Jump Street, The Lego Movie and Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs, said: “Unfortunately, our vision and process weren’t aligned with our partners on this project. We normally aren’t fans of the phrase ‘creative differences’ but for once this cliché is true. We are really proud of the amazing and world-class work of our cast and crew.”

While this latest news does not necessarily equate to an overall negative outlook on the franchise, with rewrites to Gareth Edwards’ Rogue One not detracting from the film’s generally positive audience/critical reception, it does seem to be creating an anxiety amongst Star Wars fans that the follow-ups to the universally praised Episode VII: The Force Awakens, will be unable to live up to the quality that JJ Abrams’ picture managed to achieve.

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